In episode 273, we explore the Middle-earth Creation myth, “Ainulindalë”, otherwise known as the Music of the Ainur.

“Ainulindalë” is one of the most fascinating legends that Tolkien wrote, and it introduces key characters and themes into the legendarium. Furthermore, it sets the stage for everything that comes after, from the First Age to the Third (and beyond)! If this is your first time reading it, you’re in for a big treat!

Join us as we discuss “Ainulindalë”!

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

• John R
• Kaitlyn of Tea With Tolkien

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“I don’t believe in absolute evil, but I do believe in absolute good.”

– JRR Tolkien (watch)

CONTENTS

• Quote of the Week » 2:45
• Tolkien’s Description of Ainulindalë from the Waldman Letter » 4:30
• Characters & Setting » 7:20
• The Framework of Ainulindalë » 11:45
• The Music of the Ainur » 13:55
• Introducing Melkor » 17:55
• The Vision of Arda & History » 27:30
• The Reality » “Eä! Let these things Be!” » 35:35
• Tolkien’s Overture – Concerning the Music of the Ainur » 54:58
• Ainulindalë Haiku » 57:37

Helpful Links

• buy The Silmarillion » https://amzn.to/3FOKAY5
• listen to Tolkien’s Overture » https://youtu.be/nmmbpbFrBQA
• buy Tolkien’s Overture » https://tolkiensoverture.com/
• Evan Palmer’s “Ainulindalë” graphic novella » http://www.evanpalmercomics.com/ainulindale
• Evan Palmer interview » https://youtu.be/JhagbPqiRcw
• Ainulindalë 2015 » Our discussion from episode 2 » https://youtu.be/IOHfDZsdg4Y
• Book of Lost Tales I » Episode 234 » https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFFm1KvPHZc 

SHOUT-oUTS

Special thanks to the following patrons: 

• • John R
  • Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien
  • Andrew T
  • Ms. Anonymous
  • Redhawk
  • Shannon S
  • Brian O
  • Emilio P
  • Zeke F
  • James A
  • James L
  • Chris L
  • Chuck F
  • Asya V
  • Ish of the Hammer
  • Teresa C
  • David of Pints with Jack
  • Jonathan D
  • Eric S
  • Joey S
  • Eric B
  • Johanna T
  • Mike M
  • Robert H
  • Paul D
  • Julia
  • Werty

AS WELL AS THOSE CELEBRATING THEIR PATRON ANNIVERSARY THIS MONTH (JANUARY OF 2022) »  Tyler W, Mike M, Elina V, Richard K, Melanie, Scott W, Jason T, David G, John R

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